§ 78
In The Secret Places of the Heart, H. G. Wells has plainly indicated that the love episode has taken place between Sir Richmond Hardy and Miss Grammont. He writes only of the calm which follows the emotional storm, and in these words (p. 253):
“At the breakfast table it was Belinda (Miss Grammont’s companion) who was the most nervous of the three, the most moved, the most disposed to throw a sacramental air over their last meal together. Her companions had passed beyond the idea of separation; it was as if they now cherished a secret satisfaction at the high dignity of their parting. Belinda in some way perceived they had become different. They were no longer tremulous lovers. They seemed sure of one another and with a new pride in their bearing.”